Community organisations across the state can cut energy costs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reduce waste thanks to two Andrews Labor Government programs.
Organisations can apply for up to $50,000 through the Community Climate Change and Energy Action program to upgrade heating and cooling, install shading, insulation, double glazing, lighting and renewable energy installations like roof-top solar panels and battery storage.
The program helps organisations reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency, making community facilities cheaper to run and more comfortable year-round.
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio today announced the 170 community organisations who will share $1.3 million in funding to deliver projects that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 1,695 tonnes annually, while slashing energy bills.
Successful recipients include Richmond Community Garden Group who will use a grant of $9000 to install a new solar system to offset electricity consumption, and Your Community Health in Darebin, where a grant of $16,300 will help the organisation install 79 solar panels.
A further $1.8 million in grants is available in the next round of funding which opens this week.
Meanwhile, social enterprises, not-for-profits, and community groups can develop smarter ways to use resources with grants of up to $250,000 available through the Recycling Victoria Communities Fund.
The program supports local projects like repair cafes, community worm farms and compost hubs, helping groups to repurpose, re-use and recycle everyday items. More than 800 tonnes of waste will be diverted from landfill thanks to projects already funded through the program.
For more information and to apply visit .
As stated by Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“Whether it’s finding new ways to reduce waste or cutting energy bills, these grants support our vital community organisations and play a crucial role in reducing emissions and accelerating our transition to a circular economy.”
“These two programs are already having an impact, creating jobs, helping community groups cut costs and contributing to a cleaner, greener Victoria.”
“The projects made possible as a result of these grants help us move towards a circular economy and will help us reach our ambitious target of halving emissions by 2030.”
